[3] The isolate was originally named Pyrococcus kodakarensis KOD1, but reclassified as a species of Thermococcus, based on 16S rRNA sequence.

[1] Early research with T. kodakarensis was directed mostly at its thermostable enzymes (like the KOD DNA polymerase), but its relative ease of handling and genetic manipulation facilitated by natural competence has made it an attractive system for the study of several biological processes.

[4][5] T. kodakarensis cells are irregular cocci 1–2 μm in diameter, often occurring in pairs, and are highly motile by means of lophotrichous archaella.

[1][3] T. kodakarensis is an obligate anaerobe, and a heterotroph, growing rapidly on a variety of organic substrates in the presence of elemental sulfur, producing hydrogen sulfide gas.

[1] Like other marine organisms, high salt concentrations are required for optimal growth, and cell lysis may occur in dilute solutions.